myGwork speaks to Clarissa Molina about the importance of being your authentic self at work
BY DYLAN MANN-HAZELL, IMAGE BY SOUTHWORKS
In an inspiring conversation with Clarissa Molina, Quadient’s Global Inclusion & Belonging Manager, myGwork explores her journey from a small town in Virginia to leading Global initiatives that promote workplace inclusion. With a wealth of experience in Global Affairs and a personal connection to the LGBTQIA community, Clarissa emphasizes the importance of cultivating a workplace culture where everyone feels valued, heard and empowered to be their authentic self. Read on to discover more about her experiences, insights, and the meaningful changes Quadient is making to increase a greater sense of belonging for more people.
Hi Clarissa! Could you tell me a bit about your background and career journey leading up to your current position at Quadient?
With a passion for deepening my understanding of different lived experiences, cultural beliefs and perspectives, I pursued an undergraduate degree in Global Affairs. This foundation sparked my commitment to fostering inclusion in the workplace.
I joined Quadient eight and a half years ago in the Human Resources department, where I quickly became involved in initiatives to support underrepresented groups, including the LGBTQIA community. I recognized that attracting and recruiting diverse talent was only part of the equation – creating an inclusive culture that provided all individuals with a sense of community was equally important. Over the years, I’ve witnessed and contributed to Quadient’s evolution toward becoming a more inclusive workplace, one that prioritizes belonging and works hard to foster meaningful connection among employees.
As the industry continues to navigate changes, it’s been important to upskill and continue my learning journey. Throughout my career at Quadient, I’ve received strong support from leadership to broaden my awareness, which enabled me to pursue my master’s in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, earn my SHRM-CP certification, and complete an Executive Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Georgetown University. This continuous investment in my professional growth has not only strengthened my commitment to Quadient but has also played a pivotal role in my journey to my current position as a Global Inclusion & Belonging Manager.
Can you tell me a bit about your childhood – where did you grow up; did you have any hobbies?
I grew up in a small town in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, surrounded by the natural beauty of the countryside. My grandparents were dairy farmers and so much of my childhood was spent on our farm – immersed in family life and hard work. As a child, I enjoyed painting, playing soccer, and exploring the world through books on different cultures.
As a child of an immigrant from El Salvador, I was exposed early on to the unique challenges faced by marginalized groups in the US. These lived experiences have helped to deepen my understanding and empathy for challenges others face, as I have learned that we all face different challenges on our journeys through life.
Can you share your personal journey with the LGBTQIA community?
The start of my exposure to the LGBTQIA community first started with one of my close cousins. I witnessed first-hand the struggles she faced with her identity – the ostracization that can occur, and the challenges of “coming out” to our family. Supporting and advocating for her has been a driving force in deepening my understanding of the LGBTQIA community and the challenges that are always not so visible in the workplace.
There is so much to learn as there are many diverse experiences and struggles that can occur for this particular community. I believe a significant part of the stigmas and exclusion that are resurfacing globally stem from a lack of compassion and understanding for other’s lived experience. It’s crucial to remain open to continuous learning from each other, to hold space for all voices, and ensure that everyone can feel heard, valued, and able to belong.
What has been a standout moment in your career so far?
Stepping into my role within the Global Inclusion & Belonging team has been a significant milestone in my career. It has allowed me to channel my passion for driving positive change by examining our practices, policies, programs, and initiatives to ensure that, throughout the employee lifecycle, everyone feels connected and truly belongs.
In this role, I have the opportunity to develop initiatives that broaden awareness, address bias, and celebrate the diverse identities within our organization. My work is centered around fostering an environment where every individual feels included, which in turn drives me to continuously explore what more can be done to make Quadient a better place for our employees and our wider communities.
How does Quadient strive for inclusion and provide an open space for LGBTQIA employees?
Inclusion is at the core of our EPIC values at Quadient. We are dedicated to creating a workplace where all employees are encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work, regardless of their multi-faceted identities.
We are proud to have a thriving Employee Resource Group (ERG), Love Is Love, which serves as a safe space for our LGBTQIA community at Quadient as well as those who want to learn more. With regular sessions hosted throughout the year, members can share their experiences which also offers allies the opportunity to learn. Quadient is invested in supporting our employees and, our partnership with myGwork helps signals this commitment
Throughout your career, have you noticed any developments in attitudes towards the importance of diversity and inclusion?
The work of diversity and inclusion often seems to move on a pendulum, reflecting both progress and setbacks throughout history. In recent years, society and the corporate world have made significant strides, with organizations committing to global awareness, efforts, investing in initiatives, and fostering cultural change. However, with the current climate, we are now witnessing the pendulum swing back, with some public commitments being paused or, in certain cases, going a few steps back.
Rebranding efforts are often aimed at addressing the divisiveness now associated with DEI. As a result, organizations are auditing their practices to ensure they clearly define their intentions and are committed to creating environments where employees feel included, not excluded.
Research continues to demonstrate that inclusion and belonging are critical to business success, driving engagement, innovation and improving business performance. There is still a vital place for these efforts in the workplace, but now, more than ever, we must open our hands wider to bring more people into the conversation and ensure everyone understands their role in fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.
What immediate improvements would you like to see being made for LGBTQIA equality in the future – both in the workplace, and wider society?
In recent years, the rights of the LGBTQIA community have come under increased scrutiny. Now, more than ever, the workplace has a crucial role to play in reducing heightened barriers, combating stigma, and fostering allies for the LGBTQIA community. There is still so much work to do but if everyone plays their part, I believe we can continue to make long-lasting change!
Quadient is a proud partner of myGwork, the LGBTQ+ business community. Find out more about LGBTQ+-friendly job opportunities at Quadient.
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